Japanese Prime Minister Announces Emperor Akihito's Abdication
At a solemn ceremony held at the palace, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe announced Emperor Akihito's abdication, and as a representative of the Japanese people, he expressed his gratitude to the Emperor.
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| Emperor Akihito has abdicated to his son, Crown Prince Naruhito. Photo: AP |
The ceremony took place at the Seiden Matsu-no-ma hall of the imperial palace. All the country's television channels broadcast the event live.
Treasures symbolizing royal power were respectfully brought into the room, namely the sword that according to ancient chronicles belonged to the first emperor Jimmu, the ancient jewel, the Imperial seal, and the State seal of Japan.
Attending the ceremony were Emperor Akihito and Empress, heir to the throne Crown Prince Naruhito and his wife, members of the imperial family, as well as representatives of the three branches of government, a total of about 300 people.
In August 2016, Emperor Akihito made a speech to the people of the country, stating that due to his old age, it was difficult for him to fulfill his duties, so he wanted to transfer the throne to his heir and retire.
But the country's imperial laws and constitution stipulate that succession to the throne can only take place after the current emperor dies.
Then, over 10 months, the best experts in law, history, culture, and royal protocol discussed whether there was any way to allow such a rule to be disregarded.
As a result, in June 2017, the National Assembly passed a “special law” that allows the transfer of the Chrysanthemum Throne while the king is still alive.
For the first time in 25 years, the Imperial Household Affairs Committee was convened, and on December 1, 2017, it approved the date of Emperor Akihito's abdication - April 30, 2019 - and the enthronement of Crown Prince Naruhito on May 1.
On April 1, Japan officially announced the name of the new era Reiwa, which can be translated as “beauty and harmony.”
